A FRENCH folk singer based in the North-East has released her fourth album.

By day, 36-year-old Florence Malavialle is a supply teacher who works in schools in the Tees Valley.

But she is better known as Flossie, a singer who moved to Darlington after she fell in love with its folk scene.

She released her fourth album, Making Up The Miles, at Darlington Arts Centre.

Flossie, from Nimes, France, said: "There is something for everyone."

She came to the region on a year-long exchange trip to Grangefield School, in Stockton.

She became involved in the folk scene after a fellow teacher took her to the arts centre where, after she contributed two songs, she became a regular singer at the club. She said: "There is no folk scene in the South of France.

"It was difficult to find a way to express myself that was satisfying, but that first evening in Darlington triggered everything."

Making Up The Miles was recorded in Sedgefield, County Durham, with the help of backing musicians from across the region.

Copies are £12, available by calling (01325) 369 029.